Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping has called for greater public science awareness and encouraged Chinese scientists to get more involved in science education.

"Promoting science awareness is an important task in implementing the Scientific Outlook on Development," Xi said in Beijing on Sunday, which was National Science and Technology Popularization Day.

Xi, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, joined children to conduct science experiments, and encouraged them to learn about resource saving.

Xi also visited exhibitions on energy saving technology, including the use of solar energy and the production of diesel from waste cooking oil.

"This year is crucial for the energy saving target set for the 11th five-year plan period," said Xi, adding that such green technology should be further promoted and energy-saving efforts should be enforced.

The government has set a goal to reduce energy consumption per unit of gross domestic product (GDP) by 20 percent and major pollutants discharges by 10 percent from 2006 to 2010.

Xi also called on the public to improve awareness of disaster prevention and relief so as to minimize damage caused by natural disasters.

Events to mark National Science and Technology Popularization Day will be held from September 20 to 26.

(Xinhua News Agency September 22, 2008)